Transparent Parametric Transducer And Related Methods

ABSTRACT

A transparent ultrasonic emitter includes a first transparent conductive layer; a second transparent conductive layer; and a plurality of transparent spacers disposed between the first and second transparent layers conductive of the ultrasonic audio speaker, the transparent spacers having a thickness and being arranged to define an open area between the first and second transparent layers.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit ofU.S. Utility application Ser. No. 14/604,565 filed Jan. 23, 2015, titledTransparent Parametric Emitter, which is a continuation-in-part of andclaims the benefit of U.S. Utility application Ser. No. 14/330,794 filedJul. 14, 2014, titled Transparent Parametric Emitter, which issued asU.S. Pat. No. 8,976,997 on Mar. 10, 2015, and U.S. Utility applicationSer. No. 14/056,878, filed Oct. 17, 2013, titled Transparent ParametricTransducer and Related Methods, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,258,651on Feb. 9, 2016, each of which are incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to parametric speakers. Moreparticularly, some embodiments relate to a transparent ultrasonicemitter.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Parametric sound is a fundamentally new class of audio, which relies ona non-linear mixing of an audio signal with an ultrasonic carrier. Oneof the key enablers for this technology is a high-amplitude, efficientultrasonic source, which is referred to here as an emitter ortransducer. Ultrasonic emitters can be created through a variety ofdifferent fundamental mechanisms, such as piezoelectric, electrostatic,and thermoacoustic, to name a few. Electrostatic emitters are generallycapacitive devices consisting of two conductive faces with an air gap,where at least one of the conductive faces has a texture that iscritical to the functionality of the emitter.

Non-linear transduction results from the introduction of sufficientlyintense, audio-modulated ultrasonic signals into an air column.Self-demodulation, or down-conversion, occurs along the air columnresulting in the production of an audible acoustic signal. This processoccurs because of the known physical principle that when two sound waveswith different frequencies are radiated simultaneously in the samemedium, a modulated waveform including the sum and difference of the twofrequencies is produced by the non-linear (parametric) interaction ofthe two sound waves. When the two original sound waves are ultrasonicwaves and the difference between them is selected to be an audiofrequency, an audible sound can be generated by the parametricinteraction.

Parametric audio reproduction systems produce sound through theheterodyning of two acoustic signals in a non-linear process that occursin a medium such as air. The acoustic signals are typically in theultrasound frequency range. The non-linearity of the medium results inacoustic signals produced by the medium that are the sum and differenceof the acoustic signals. Thus, two ultrasound signals that are separatedin frequency can result in a difference tone that is within the 60 Hz to20,000 Hz range of human hearing.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the technology described herein include an ultrasonicaudio speaker system, comprising an ultrasonic emitter. In variousembodiments, the emitter is a transparent emitter configured with asufficient degree of transparency so that it can be positioned over, orimplemented as, a screen for a display of a content device. Thetransparent ultrasonic audio speaker in various embodiments includes anemitter and a driver.

In one embodiment, an ultrasonic audio speaker includes: a firsttransparent conductive layer; a second transparent conductive layer; anda plurality of transparent spacers disposed between the first and secondtransparent layers conductive of the ultrasonic audio speaker, thetransparent spacers having a thickness and being arranged to define anopen area between the first and second transparent layers.

In one embodiment, the first transparent conductive layer includes afirst conductive layer adjacent a first nonconductive layer and thesecond transparent conductive layer includes a second conductive layeradjacent a second nonconductive layer. A hard coat layer may be includedand disposed on the first transparent conductive layer.

The spacers may include a pattern of transparent structures disposedbetween the first and second transparent conductive layers, and may beof a dimension chosen to define a resonant frequency of the ultrasonicaudio speaker. The spacers may include a plurality of transparent dotsarranged in a pattern between the first and second transparentconductive layers. In other embodiments, the spacers may include aplurality of transparent ridges arranged in a pattern between the firstand second transparent conductive layers. The transparent ridges mayinclude a plurality of parallel ridges, a plurality of cross-wise ridgesor a plurality of ridges arranged as concentric rings.

The ultrasonic audio speaker may have a resonant frequency, which may bedefined by a volume of the open area between the first and secondtransparent layers and a thickness of the first transparent layer.

The ultrasonic audio speaker may be configured such that the first andsecond transparent layers and the transparent spacers as disposedbetween the two layers have a combined transmittance of greater than 80%in the visible spectrum. The ultrasonic audio speaker may be disposed ona display screen of a content device.

In yet another embodiment, an electronic content device, includes: apower supply; a content engine coupled to receive power from the powersupply and to generate electrical signals representing audio content andelectrical signals representing display content; a display coupled tothe content engine and configured to receive the electrical signalsrepresenting display content and to generate a visual representation ofthe display content; and a transparent ultrasonic carrier audio emitterdisposed on the display. The transparent ultrasonic carrier audioemitter may include: an ultrasonic audio speaker includes: a firsttransparent conductive layer; a second transparent conductive layer; anda plurality of transparent spacers disposed between the first and secondtransparent layers conductive of the ultrasonic audio speaker, thetransparent spacers having a thickness and being arranged to define anopen area between the first and second transparent layers.

The electronic content device a may also include a modulator coupled toreceive the electrical signals representing audio content, and tomodulate the received electrical signals onto and ultrasonic carrier;and a driver circuit having two inputs configured to be coupled toreceive the audio content modulated onto an ultrasonic carrier signal,and two outputs, wherein a first output is coupled to the transparentconductor and the second output is coupled to the partially opentransparent conductive layer.

The ultrasonic emitter may have a resonant frequency defined by spacingbetween the transparent layers and dimensions of the spacers.

The spacers may be of a dimension chosen to define a resonant frequencyof the ultrasonic audio speaker.

Other features and aspects of the invention will become apparent fromthe following detailed description, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the featuresin accordance with embodiments of the invention. The summary is notintended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined solely bythe claims attached hereto.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention, in accordance with one or more variousembodiments, is described in detail with reference to the accompanyingfigures. The drawings are provided for purposes of illustration only andmerely depict typical or example embodiments of the invention. Thesedrawings are provided to facilitate the reader's understanding of thesystems and methods described herein, and shall not be consideredlimiting of the breadth, scope, or applicability of the claimedinvention.

Some of the figures included herein illustrate various embodiments ofthe invention from different viewing angles. Although the accompanyingdescriptive text may refer to elements depicted therein as being on the“top,” “bottom” or “side” of an apparatus, such references are merelydescriptive and do not imply or require that the invention beimplemented or used in a particular spatial orientation unlessexplicitly stated otherwise.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an ultrasonic sound system suitable foruse with the emitter technology described herein.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating another example of a signal processingsystem that is suitable for use with the emitter technology describedherein.

FIG. 3A is an exploded view diagram illustrating an example emitter inaccordance with one embodiment of the technology described herein.

FIG. 3B is an exploded view diagram illustrating an example emitter inaccordance with one embodiment of the technology described herein.

FIG. 3C is an exploded view diagram illustrating an example emitter inaccordance with one embodiment of the technology described herein.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a cross sectional view of an assembledemitter in accordance with the example illustrated in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a further embodiment of a transparentparametric emitter.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of a transparentparametric emitter.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating yet another embodiment of a transparentparametric emitter.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating examples of spacer patterns inaccordance with various embodiments of the technology described herein.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating another example of a simple drivercircuit that can be used to drive the emitters disclosed herein.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a cutaway view of an example of a potcore that can be used to form a pot-core inductor.

FIG. 11 is an exploded view diagram of an emitter and an accompanyingcontent device with which it is incorporated in accordance with oneembodiment of the technology described herein.

FIG. 12A is a diagram illustrating an example of an emitter (e.g.,emitter 6) applied to the screen of a smart phone.

FIG. 12B is a diagram illustrating an example of an emitter (e.g.,emitter 6) applied to the screen of a flat screen television.

FIG. 12C is a diagram illustrating an example of an emitter (e.g.,emitter 6) applied to the screen of a portable GPS device.

FIG. 12D is a diagram illustrating an example of an emitter (e.g.,emitter 6) applied to the screen of a digital camera.

FIG. 12E is a diagram illustrating an example of an emitter (e.g.,emitter 6) applied to the screen of a handheld gaming device.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating one example configuration of adual-channel emitter configured to provide ultrasonic carrier audio fortwo audio channels.

FIG. 14A illustrates an example of an emitter in an arcuateconfiguration.

FIG. 14B illustrates a perspective view of an example of an emitter inan arcuate configuration.

FIG. 15A illustrates an example of an emitter in a cylindricalconfiguration.

FIG. 15B illustrates a perspective view of an example of an emitter in acylindrical configuration.

The figures are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the inventionto the precise form disclosed. It should be understood that theinvention can be practiced with modification and alteration, and thatthe invention be limited only by the claims and the equivalents thereof.

DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the systems and methods described herein provide aHyperSonic Sound (HSS) audio system or other ultrasonic audio system fora variety of different applications. Certain embodiments provide anultrasonic emitter for ultrasonic carrier audio applications.Preferably, the ultrasonic emitter is made using conductive layers orregions on glass or other transparent material, separated by atransparent insulating layer, so that the emitter has a high degree oftransparency.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, the emitter is sufficientlytransparent such that it can be positioned on or in front of the displayscreen of a content playback or display device to provide directionalaudio to a user of the device. In other embodiments, the emitter can beprovided in place of the display screen of a content playback or displaydevice. Content display devices such as, for example, laptops, tabletcomputers, computers and other computing devices, smartphones,televisions, PDAs, mobile devices, mp3 and video players, digitalcameras, navigation systems, point-of-sale terminals and other contentdisplay devices are becoming smaller and lighter and are being designedwith power saving features in mind.

Because of the shrinking size of such content devices, there is lessroom available in the device packaging to include audio speakers.Conventional audio speakers generally operate better with a resonatingchamber, and also resonate at frequencies requiring a relatively largedegree of movement from the speaker cone. Accordingly, sufficient spaceis required in the device packaging to accommodate such speakers. Thiscan become particularly challenging with contemporary content devices inwhich displays, and hence the devices, are becoming increasing thin.Also contributing to this challenge is the fact that contemporarycontent devices are often designed such that the front face of thedevice is primarily occupied by the display screen, which is surroundedby only a small, decorative border. Thus, it has become increasinglymore difficult to achieve desired audio output with conventionalacoustic audio speakers given these dimensional constraints. Moreover,conventional acoustic audio speakers tend to not be highly directional.Therefore, it is difficult to ‘direct’ conventional audio signalsexclusively to an intended listener location.

Therefore, in some embodiments, one or more transparent parametricemitters are disposed on the face of the device to allow parametricaudio content to be provided to the device user(s). Further, in someembodiments, a transparent emitter can be positioned over part or all ofthe content device's display. In still further embodiments, atransparent emitter can be provided and used as (e.g., in place of) thedisplay's protective cover (i.e., glass facing). Accordingly, in variousembodiments, the transparent emitter is manufactured with materialsproviding sufficient light transmittance in the visible spectrum toallow satisfactory viewing by a user(s). For example, in someembodiments the light transmittance of the emitter in the visiblespectrum is 50% or greater. In further embodiments, the lighttransmittance of the emitter in the visible spectrum is 60% or greater.In still further embodiments, the light transmittance of the emitter inthe visible spectrum is 70% or greater. In still further embodiments,the light transmittance of the emitter in the visible spectrum is 80% orgreater. As a further example, the light transmittance of the emitter inthe visible spectrum is in the range of 70-90%. As yet another example,the light transmittance of the emitter in the visible spectrum is in therange of 75-85%. As still another example, the light transmittance ofthe emitter in the visible spectrum is in the range of 80-95%.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an ultrasonic sound system suitable foruse with the systems and methods described herein. In this exemplaryultrasonic audio system 1, audio content from an audio source 2, suchas, for example, a microphone, memory, a data storage device, streamingmedia source, CD player, DVD player, content display device, or otheraudio source is received. The audio content may be decoded and convertedfrom digital to analog form, depending on the source. The audio contentreceived by the audio system 1 is modulated onto an ultrasonic carrierof frequency fl, using a modulator. The modulator typically includes alocal oscillator 3 to generate the ultrasonic carrier signal, andmultiplier 4 to multiply the audio signal by the carrier signal. Theresultant signal is a double- or single-sideband signal with a carrierat frequency fl. In some embodiments, signal is a parametric ultrasonicwave or an HSS signal. In most cases, the modulation scheme used isamplitude modulation, or AM. AM can be achieved by multiplying theultrasonic carrier by the information-carrying signal, which in thiscase is the audio signal. The spectrum of the modulated signal has twosidebands, an upper and a lower side band, which are generally symmetricwith respect to the carrier frequency, and the carrier itself.

The modulated ultrasonic signal is provided to the emitter or transducer6, which launches the ultrasonic wave into the air creating ultrasonicwave 7. When played back through the transducer at a sufficiently highsound pressure level, due to nonlinear behavior of the air through whichit is ‘played’ or transmitted, the carrier in the signal mixes with thesideband(s) to demodulate the signal and reproduce the audio content.This is sometimes referred to as self-demodulation. Thus, even forsingle-sideband implementations, the carrier is included with thelaunched signal so that self-demodulation can take place. Although thesystem illustrated in FIG. 1 uses a single transducer to launch a singlechannel of audio content, one of ordinary skill in the art after readingthis description will understand how multiple mixers, amplifiers andtransducers can be used to transmit multiple channels of audio usingultrasonic carriers.

One example of a signal processing system 10 that is suitable for usewith the technology described herein is illustrated schematically inFIG. 2. In this embodiment, various processing circuits or componentsare illustrated in the order (relative to the processing path of thesignal) in which they are arranged according to one implementation. Itis to be understood that the components of the processing circuit canvary, as can the order in which the input signal is processed by eachcircuit or component. Also, depending upon the embodiment, the signalprocessing system 10 can include more or fewer components or circuitsthan those shown.

The example shown in FIG. 1 is optimized for use in processing two inputand output channels (e.g., a “stereo” signal), with various componentsor circuits including substantially matching components for each channelof the signal. It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the artafter reading this description that the audio system 1 can beimplemented using a single channel (e.g., a “monaural” or “mono”signal), two channels (e.g., “stereo”) (as illustrated in FIG. 2), or agreater number of channels.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the example signal processing system 10 caninclude audio inputs that can correspond to left 12 a and right 12 bchannels of an audio input signal. Equalizing networks 14 a, 14 b can beincluded to provide equalization of the signal. The equalizationnetworks can, for example, boost or suppress predetermined frequenciesor frequency ranges to increase the benefit provided naturally by theemitter/inductor combination of the parametric emitter assembly.

After the audio signals are equalized, compressor circuits 16 a, 16 bcan be included to compress the dynamic range of the incoming signal,effectively raising the amplitude of certain portions of the incomingsignals and lowering the amplitude of certain other portions of theincoming signals. More particularly, compressor circuits 16 a, 16 b canbe included to narrow the range of audio amplitudes. In one aspect, thecompressors lessen the peak-to-peak amplitude of the input signals by aratio of not less than about 2:1. Adjusting the input signals to anarrower range of amplitude can be done to minimize distortion, which ischaracteristic of the limited dynamic range of this class of modulationsystems. In other embodiments, the equalizing networks 14 a, 14 b can beprovided after compressor circuits 16 a, 16 b, to equalize the signalsafter compression.

Low pass filter circuits 18 a, 18 b can be included to provide a cutoffof high portions of the signal, and high pass filter circuits 20 a, 20 bproviding a cutoff of low portions of the audio signals. In oneexemplary embodiment, low pass filter circuits 18 a, 18 b are used tocut signals higher than about 15-20 kHz, and high pass filter circuits20 a, 20 b are used to cut signals lower than about 20-200 Hz.

The high pass filter circuits 20 a, 20 b can be configured to eliminatelow frequencies that, after modulation, would result in deviation ofcarrier frequency (e.g., those portions of the modulated signal that areclosest to the carrier frequency). Also, some low frequencies aredifficult for the system to reproduce efficiently and as a result, muchenergy can be wasted trying to reproduce these frequencies. Therefore,high pass filter circuits 20 a, 20 b can be configured to cut out thesefrequencies.

Low pass filter circuits 18 a, 18 b can be configured to eliminatehigher frequencies that, after modulation, could result in the creationof an audible beat signal with the carrier. By way of example, if a lowpass filter cuts frequencies above 15 kHz, and the carrier frequency isapproximately 44 kHz, the difference signal will not be lower thanaround 29 kHz, which is still outside of the audible range for humans.However, if frequencies as high as 25 kHz were allowed to pass thefilter circuit, the difference signal generated could be in the range of19 kHz, which is within the range of human hearing.

In the example signal processing system 10, after passing through thelow pass and high pass filters, the audio signals are modulated bymodulators 22 a, 22 b. Modulators 22 a, 22 b, mix or combine the audiosignals with a carrier signal generated by oscillator 23. For example,in some embodiments a single oscillator (which in one embodiment isdriven at a selected frequency of 40 kHz to 50 kHz, which rangecorresponds to readily available crystals that can be used in theoscillator) is used to drive both modulators 22 a, 22 b. By utilizing asingle oscillator for multiple modulators, an identical carrierfrequency is provided to multiple channels being output at 24 a, 24 bfrom the modulators. Using the same carrier frequency for each channellessens the risk that any audible beat frequencies may occur.

High-pass filters 27 a, 27 b can also be included after the modulationstage. High-pass filters 27 a, 27 b can be used to pass the modulatedultrasonic carrier signal and ensure that no audio frequencies enter theamplifier via outputs 24 a, 24 b. Accordingly, in some embodiments,high-pass filters 27 a, 27 b can be configured to filter out signalsbelow about 25 kHz. Also, in various embodiments, error correction maybe employed to reduce or cancel out distortion that may arise intransmission of the ultrasonic signal through the medium to thelistener.

FIG. 3A is an exploded view diagram illustrating an example emitter inaccordance with one embodiment of the technology described herein. Theexample emitter shown in FIG. 3 includes sheets 45 and 46, which invarious embodiments are transparent sheets. Although sheets 45, 46 canbe transparent, non-transparent materials can be used as well. For easeof discussion, the emitter configurations are described herein from timeto time as transparent emitters. However, one of ordinary skill in theart will understand that for various applications, opaque emitters oremitters with varying levels of opacity can be provided as well. In suchalternative embodiments, one or more of the sheets of the emitter can bemade with opaque or semi-opaque materials.

Sheets 45, 46 in the illustrated example, each include two layers 45 a,45 b and 46 a, 46 b, respectively. Sheet 45 in this example, includes abase layer 45 b comprising glass or other like material. Sheet 45 alsoincludes a conductive layer 45 a provided in the illustrated example onthe top surface of base layer 45 b. Similarly, in this example, sheet 46includes a base layer 46 b comprising glass or other like material, anda conductive layer 46 a provided in the illustrated example on the topsurface of base layer 46 b. Conductive layers 45 a, 46 a are illustratedwith shading on the visible edges to better contrast the conductiveregions and the nonconductive regions. Although some embodiments may useshaded or tinted materials, the shading in the drawings is done forillustrative purposes only.

The conductive layers 45 a, 46 a can be a thin layer of conductivematerial deposited on their respective base layers 45 b, 46 b. Forexample, conductive layers 45 a, 46 a can comprise a conductive coatingsprayed, evaporated, or otherwise deposited on base layers 45 b, 46 b.As a further example, the conductive layers 45 a, 46 a can compriseIndium Tin Oxide (ITO), Fluorine doped Tin Oxide (FTO), doped zincoxide, transparent gold, so-called hybrid transparent conductivecoatings, conductive polymers, metal oxides or other like conductivematerial coated onto the transparent substrate. Conductive layers 45 a,46 a can also comprise a layer of carbon nanotube networks or Grapheneor a combination thereof disposed on the transparent sheet.

Conductive layers 45 a, 46 a can also comprise a conductive sheet ofmaterial laminated or otherwise deposited on base layers 45 b, 46 b. Forexample, a conductive mylar or other like film can be laminated orotherwise deposited on base layers 45 b, 46 b. In still furtherembodiments, conductive layers 45 a, 46 a can comprise a dopedconduction layer or diffusion layer of conductive material that has beendiffused partially or completely into sheets 45, 46 to form conductivelayers 45 a, 46 a. For example, gold or other conductive metals can bediffused into the glass to a desired depth and at a desiredconcentration to provide conductivity to a desired value (e.g. a desiredvalue of ohms/square). Preferably, the conductive region/layer 45 a, 46a has a high degree of transparency (e.g., greater than 80% or 90% inthe visible spectrum, although other transparencies can be used) so asnot to unduly adversely affect the overall transparency of the emitter.

Accordingly, sheets 45 and 46 comprise base layers 45 b, 46 b each witha conductive layer 45 a, 46 a having a low electrical resistance. Forexample, in one embodiment, the resistance of each conductive layer 45a, 46 a can be 100 ohms/square or less. In other embodiments, theresistance of each conductive layer 45 a, 46 a can be 50 ohms/square orless. In further embodiments, the resistance of each conductive layer 45a, 46 a can be 10 ohms/square or less. In still other embodiments, theresistance of each conductive layer 45 a, 46 a can be 150 ohms/square orless. In yet other embodiments, the resistances of conductive layers 45a, 46 a can have other values, and the resistance of conductive layers45 a, 46 a need not be equal to one another.

In some embodiments, sheets 45, 46 are implemented using ahigh-ion-exchange (HIE) alkali-aluminosilicate thin-sheet glass. Moreparticularly, in some embodiments, sheets 45, 46 comprise a sheet ofCorning® Gorilla® Glass (available from Corning Incorporated, OneRiverfront Plaza, Corning, N.Y. 14831 USA), or other like material. Inother embodiments, sheets 45, 46 are implemented using Corning® Willow™Glass, also available from Corning Incorporated, One Riverfront Plaza,Corning, N.Y. 14831 USA). For example, in one embodiment, sheet 46 ismade of Willow Glass and sheet 45 is made of a thicker, more rigidGorilla Glass. As described elsewhere herein, and as would be apparentto one of ordinary skill in the art after reading this description,other transparent materials can be used for sheets 45 and 46.

Although sheets 45, 46 or their respective base layers 45 b, 46 b aredescribed above as comprising glass sheets, other transparent materialscan be used for transparent base layers 45 b, 46 b. For example,polycarbonates, acrylics, Plexiglas, plastics or other like materialscan be used. In some embodiments, metallized films with a sufficientlylight-transmitting metallic coating so as to provide transparencywithout adversely affecting viewing of content through the emitter canbe used to provide the conductive sheets 45 and/or 46. For example, inone embodiment, a glass or other rigid material can be used for sheet 45(e.g., to form a rigid backplate for the emitter) and a metallized filmcan be used for sheet 46. Accordingly, metallized films such as, forexample, Mylar and Kapton® can be used as either or both sheets 45 and46.

In some embodiments, sheet 45 can be of a thickness in the range ofabout 2 mm-10 mm and sheet 46 can be of a thickness in the range ofabout 0.05 mm-0.5 mm, although other thicknesses are permitted. Forexample, in some embodiments, layer 46 is 0.25 mils in thickness andsheet 45 is 20 mils in thickness. A thinner, lower resistance layerbetween conductive layers 45 a, 46 a allows operation of the emitterwith a lower amount of bias voltage.

In operation, one layer vibrates in response to the electrical signalprovided across the layers, launching the modulated ultrasonic signalinto the transmission medium (e.g., into the air). Assume, for example,in some embodiments that the emitter is configured such that layer 46 ispositioned toward the face of the emitter and vibrates in response tothe electrical signal, and sheet 45 is toward the back of the emitter.In some embodiments, sheet 45 may be provided with sufficient thicknessto impart a desired amount of rigidity and strength to the emitter.Accordingly, in some embodiments, sheet 45 may be of greater thicknessthan layer 46. In fact, in various embodiments, layer 46 is providedthin enough to allow it to oscillate and launch the modulated ultrasoniccarrier into the air.

In various embodiments, conductive layers 45 a, 46 a may be much thinnerthan base layers 45 b, 46 b. However, for ease of illustration, thedimensions (including the relative thicknesses) of the various layers 45a, 45 b, 46 a, 46 b are not drawn to scale.

Where sheets 45, 46 include a conductive layer 45 a, 46 a and a baselayer 45 b, 46 b, the intermediate base layer between the two conductivelayers (base layer 46 b in the illustrated example) can serve as aresistive layer, electrically isolating conductive layer 46 a fromconductive layer 45 a. In various embodiments, this intermediate baselayer (46 b in the illustrated example) is of sufficient thickness toprevent arcing or shorting between conductive layers 45 a, 46 a. Infurther embodiments, this intermediate base layer (46 b in theillustrated example) in series with an air gap provided between layers45 and 46, is of sufficient resistance to prevent arcing or shortingbetween conductive layers 45 a, 46 a.

In various embodiments, a separate insulating layer 47 (shown in FIGS.3B, 3C) can be included to provide additional electrical isolationbetween layers 45 and 46. Insulating layer 47 can comprise a glass,plastic, or polymer layer or other high-optical-transmittance layerhaving relatively low conductivity to provide an insulating layerbetween sheets 45 and 46. For example, insulating layer 47 can have avery high or even a virtually infinite resistance. For applicationswhere a thin emitter is desired, insulating layer 47 can be chosen to beas thin as possible or practical, while preventing electrical shortingor arcing between layers 45 and 46. Insulating layer 47 can be made, forexample, using glass, polycarbonates, acrylics, plastics, PET, axiallyor biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene,polyimide, or other insulative film or material. Preferably, insulatinglayer 47 has sufficiently high resistivity to prevent arcing betweenlayers 45 and 46. Note that where the insulating properties of baselayer 46 b (in FIG. 3B) are sufficient, insulating layer 47 is notneeded (i.e., the embodiment shown in FIG. 3A is sufficient).

Insulating layer 47 can be chosen to be as thin as possible orpractical, while preventing electrical shorting or arcing between layers45 and 46. Insulating layer 47 can be made, for example, using glass,polycarbonates, acrylics, plastics, PET, axially or biaxially-orientedpolyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyimide, or otherinsulative film or material. Preferably, insulating layer 47 hassufficiently high resistivity to prevent arcing between layers 45 and46.

For applications where transparency is desired, high transmittancematerials in the visible spectrum are preferred. For example, GorillaGlass and Willow Glass have transmittances of approximately 90% orgreater in the visible wavelengths. Materials with high transmittancesare well suited for applications where the parametric emitter is affixedto, or used in place of, the display of a content device such as alaptop, tablet, smartphone, computer, television, mobile device, camera,portable GPS unit, or other content display device. Where a two-layersystem is used with each layer having 90% or better transmittance, theemitter can be made having a total transmittance of approximately 81% orbetter. Additional applications are also described below.

Sheets 45 and 46 (and insulating layer 47, if included) can be joinedtogether using a number of different techniques. For example, frames,clamps, clips, adhesives or other attachment mechanisms can be used tojoin the layers together. The layers can be joined together at the edgesto avoid interfering with resonance of the emitter films. Preferably,sheets 45 and 46 (and insulating layer 47 when included) are heldtogether in close, fixed relation to one another.

Spacers 49 (FIG. 4) can be included between layers 45, 46 (and 47, ifincluded) to allow a gap between layers. In various embodiments, an airgap is provided between layer 46 and the next adjacent layer (45 or 47)to allow layer 46 to oscillate in response to the modulated carriersignal. Spacers 49 can be provided in various shapes and forms and canbe positioned at various locations between the layers to provide supportto maintain the air gap. For example, spacers can be dots or beads madefrom low-conductivity material such as, for example, glass, plastics,and so on. Spacers can also be made using silicone or other gels, finedust or sand, transparent liquids or other transparent materials. Invarious embodiments, the contact area of the spacers 49 at layer 46 ismaintained as a small contact area so as not to interfere withoscillation of layer 46. In various embodiments, the air gap can rangefrom 0.1 to 20 mils. In some applications, layer 46 oscillates to adisplacement of about 1 micron (0.03937 mils) in order to produce asufficiently audible signal. Accordingly, the air gap in suchembodiments is greater than 0.03937 mils to avoid having the base layer45 (which may be rigid or mounted on a rigid surface) interfere with theoscillation of layer 46.

Although conductive sheets 45 and 46 can be the same thickness, in someembodiments, one of the conductive sheets (e.g., sheet 45) can be madeof a thicker material to provide greater rigidity to the emitter.Because resonance will be affected by the thickness, this thicker sheetwill typically be the sheet positioned away from the listener and form atransparent backing plate of the emitter. For example, conductive sheet45 can be up to 125 mils in thickness, or thicker, thereby increasingthe thickness and rigidity of the emitter.

In some embodiments, with a thicker layer serving as a backing plate,the emitter can replace the screen that might otherwise be present onthe display of a content device. In such embodiments, for example, theemitter can be assembled and used to replace the glass (or othermaterial) cover of the content device. In other embodiments, the emittercan be added to the screen of the content device as an outer layerthereof.

Additionally, sheet 45 can be a smooth or substantially smooth surface,or it can be rough or pitted. For example, sheet 45 can be sanded, sandblasted, formed with pits or irregularities in the surface, depositedwith a desired degree of ‘orange peel’ or otherwise provided withtexture. This texture can provide effective spacing between sheets 45,46, allowing sheet 46 to vibrate in response to the applied modulatedcarrier. This spacing can reduce the damping that might be caused bymore continuous contact of sheet 45 with sheet 46. Also, as noted above,in some embodiments, spacers 49 (FIG. 4) can be provided to maintain adesired spacing between sheets 45 and 46. Small spacers 49 can bedeposited or formed in the surface of sheet 45 that is adjacent to sheet46 (or vice versa) to allow a gap to be maintained. Again, this spacingcan allow sheet 45 to oscillate in response to the applied modulatedcarrier signal.

In various embodiments, a non-conductive backing plate (not illustrated)can also be provided. Non-conductive backing plate can also betransparent and can serve to insulate conductive sheet 45 on the backside of the emitter and provide a foundation by which the emitter can bepositioned or mounted. For example, conductive sheet 45 can be depositedon a non-conductive, or relatively low conductivity, glass substrate. Inanother embodiment, conductive sheet 45 can be positioned on the screenof a content device.

In operation, sheets 45 and 46 provide opposite poles of the parametricemitter. In one embodiment (and in examples described above) sheet 46 isthe active pole that oscillates in response to the application of themodulated carrier signal via contact 52 a. To drive the emitter withenough power to get sufficient ultrasonic pressure level, arcing canoccur where the spacing between conductive sheet 46 and conductive sheet45 is too small. However, where the spacing is too large, the emitterwon't achieve resonance. In some embodiments, the spacing is made assmall as possible (e.g., the layers are placed as close as possiblewhile avoiding arcing) and the thickness of the vibrating layer (e.g.,layer 46) is adjusted to tune the resonant frequency of the emitter.Arranging layers 45 and 46 close to one another provides for a moreefficient operation because, generally speaking, as the layers areplaced closer together, less voltage is needed to drive the emitter.

If an insulating layer 47 is used, in some embodiments it is a layer ofabout 0.92 mil in thickness. In some embodiments, insulating layer 47 isa layer from about 0.90 to about 1 mil in thickness. In furtherembodiments, insulating layer 47 is a layer from about 0.75 to about 1.2mil in thickness. In still further embodiments, insulating layer 47 isas thin as about 0.33 or 0.25 mil in thickness. Other thicknesses can beused, and in some embodiments, a separate insulating layer 47 is notprovided. In some embodiments, insulating layer 47 can be provided withcutouts, holes or other apertures to provide the function of spacers 49.For instance, insulating layer 47 can comprise a sheet with a pattern ofholes through the material. The remaining material between the holes canfunction as the spacers 49. The cutouts can be any shape and size,including circular, square, polygonal, and so on.

One benefit of including an insulating layer 47 is that it can allow agreater level of bias voltage to be applied across the first and secondconductive surfaces of sheets 45, 46 without arcing. When consideringthe insulative properties of the materials between the two conductivesurfaces of sheets 45, 46, one should consider the insulative value ofinsulating layer 47, if included as well as that of the air gap and ofbase layer 46 b, if included.

Where an insulating layer 47 is included, or where the air gap issufficiently large to prevent arcing, the conductive layers 45 a, 46 aof sheets 45, 46 can in various embodiments be positioned facing oneanother as illustrated in FIG. 3C. Also, in other embodiments, theinsulating layer 47 can allow avoidance of nonconductive region, or baselayer, 46 b.

Electrical contacts 52 a, 52 b are used to couple the modulated carriersignal into the emitter. An example of a driver circuit for the emitteris described below.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a cross sectional view of an assembledemitter in accordance with the example illustrated in FIG. 3A. Asillustrated, this embodiment includes conductive sheet 45, conductivesheet 46 and spacers 49 disposed between conductive sheets 45, 46.

In further embodiments of the disclosed technology, the various layersof sheet 45 and sheet 46 can be arranged in alternative configurationsfrom those shown above. FIGS. 5-7 illustrate various further embodimentsof a transparent parametric emitter. Referring first to FIG. 5, theexample emitter includes four layers: a transparent conductive layer 46a, a transparent nonconductive layer 46 b, a transparent conductivelayer 45 a, and a transparent nonconductive layer 45 b. The exampleemitter also includes a plurality of spacers 49, preferably implementedas transparent beads or dots, which provide spacing between conductivelayer 46 and conductive layer 45.

In various embodiments, the spacing and spatial volume between thelayers can be chosen to tune or adjust the resonant frequency of theemitter and to allow conductive layer 46 to vibrate to generate andlaunch the modulated ultrasonic signal into the transmission medium(e.g., into the air). In some embodiments, conductive layer 46 (e.g., aconductive film) is positioned as close to conductive layer 45 aspossible (for example, as close as can be obtained without arcingbetween the layers) and the resonant frequency of the emitter is tunedby adjusting the thickness of conductive layer 46.

As with the embodiments described above, transparent base layers 45 b,46 b can comprise any of a number of different transparent materialsincluding, for example, glasses, Plexiglas, plastics, PETs, Mylar,Kapton and other like materials. Transparent layer 45 b could alsocomprise the outermost layer of an LCD (or other display), such as, forexample, a polarizer, outer glass, or other outer layer, or it can bemounted to the outermost layer of a display. In the diagram illustratedin FIG. 5, the example emitter is illustrated as being mounted to adisplay screen 60 of a content display device.

Transparent layer 46 b can be any thickness as may be appropriate forthe given application. For example, in some embodiments, transparentlayer 46 b can have a thickness in the range of 25 to 50 microns. Inother embodiments, transparent layer 46 b may be as thin as 10 to 12microns, for example, while in other embodiments it can be as thick as350 microns, for example. Because layer 46 is intended to vibrate togenerate the ultrasonic wave launched into the air, it is preferablethat layer 46, and therefore transparent layer 46 b, be thin enough toallow such vibration. Because the transparent conductive layer 46 a maybe relatively thin, transparent layer 46 b can, in various embodiments,provide support to conductive layer 46 a, and its thickness adjustedaccordingly. In some applications, thicknesses significantly greaterthan 50 microns overall may lead to an undesirably low operatingefficiency, which one of ordinary skill in the art will understand canbe overcome with the addition of more power.

In various embodiments as described above, conductive layers 45 a, 46 acomprise a thin layer of conductive material deposited, laminated orotherwise disposed on their transparent base layers 45 b, 46 b.

In various embodiments, layers 45 b and 49 are configured to have acertain resistivity and breakdown voltage, to provide sufficientinsulation between conductive layers 46 a and 45 a. The resistivity ofthe materials in layers 45 b and 49 is preferably >1000 ohm*cm, and theypreferably have a breakdown voltage ≧100 V/mil, although other valuescan be used. As noted above, it is desired to prevent shorting betweenconductive layers 46 a and 45 a. Therefore, the layer resistivity andbreakdown voltage parameters may be chosen with this goal in mind.Higher resistivity may be desirable, for example, as this allows closerplacement of conductive layers 46 a and 45 a, which provides operationthat is more efficient. In addition to providing electrical insulation,layer 45 b can be of a suitable thickness and index of refraction so asto provide index matching and/or anti-reflective properties, which mayincrease the light transmission through the emitter.

The example of FIG. 5 also includes a plurality of dots or spacers 49disposed between layers 45 and 46. As noted above with reference to FIG.4, the spacers 49 can be implemented as beads of glass, plastic,polymer, or other transparent material. Spacers 49 are preferably lessthan 50 microns in diameter and in some embodiments can be as small as 8to 12μ. Indeed, in further embodiments, spacers 49 can be smaller.Preferably, spacers are large enough to provide an adequate spacingbetween layers 45 and 46, yet small enough to minimize or reduceinterference with the transparency of the device. With a closer spacingbetween layers 45 and 46, generally less voltage is needed to drive theemitter for a given output, and the resonant frequency of the systemincreases with all other variables remaining the same. It is furthernoted that smaller spacers may be preferable because a smaller footprintof spacers 49 in contact with layer 46 will typically reduce the dampingeffect that spacers 49 may have on the output of the emitter.

Spacers 49 can be patterned onto layer 45 or 46 in any of a number ofpatterns or shapes. For example, spacers 49 can be patterned as bumps,dots, or other like discrete structures arranged in a pattern such as ina square lattice or other pattern. Spacing between the spacers 49 can bedetermined by balancing the trade-offs between providing sufficientsupport for layer 46 against the goals of maintaining transparency ofthe emitter and providing a sufficient air gap to enable tuning theresonance of the emitter.

In some embodiments, spacers 49 are arranged in a square lattice patternwith a 1 mm pitch. Although spacers 49 are illustrated as spherical,they can take on any shape suitable for the application. Spacers 49 neednot be configured as dots or beads, but can also be patterned aselongated spots, ridges, or other shapes and patterns that can be usedto provide spacing between the layers 45, 46. FIG. 8 is a diagramillustrating an example of spacer patterns that can be used. As seen, inother embodiments, the spacers 49 can be patterned as dots arranged in asquare lattice as shown at example 64. Spacers 49 can also be configuredas a plurality of parallel ridges as shown at example 65, a plurality ofridges running cross-wise to one another as shown at example 66, and aplurality of ridges forming concentric rings as shown at example 68. Aswill be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art after readingthis description spacers can be provided in any of a number of patternsand shapes to perform the desired function which can include, forexample, maintaining an open volume between layers 45 and 46, adjustinga resonant frequency of the emitter, and allowing the vibrating surfaceof the emitter to vibrate.

Spacers 49 can be applied to either or both surfaces 45, 46 using any ofa number of techniques. For example, spacers 49 can be printed (e.g.,screen printed) onto a layer and hardened. The spacers can be hardened,for example, by freezing, curing, drying or other hardening techniques.In other embodiments, the spacers can be made by a sol-gel process, suchas, for example, a process by which a solution such as SiO₂ is disposedon the desired surface in dots (or other shapes) and allowed to hardensuch as by drying, curing or firing. The sol-gel may be spin coated,patterned and cured into an appropriate dielectric. In still otherembodiments, the spacers can be made by vacuum sputtering of anappropriate dielectric through a suitable mask. As a further example, UVcurable or other curable inks can be used to form the spacers 49 viaprinting, and the printed pattern hardened through curing (e.g., byexposure to UV radiation). Likewise, heat-curable inks can be used aswell. In yet another embodiment, glass beads can be used as spacers 49.For example, a pattern of electrostatic charges can be created on thelayer to position the beads in place. Once in place, the beads can beaffixed to the desired positions (e.g., by flash freezing or othertechniques).

In some embodiments, a hard coat surface coating can be provided toprotect the emitter from damage due to handling or other physicalcontact or from degradation or wear due to exposure to the environment.FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the emitter shown in FIG.5A, but with the addition of a hard coat coating. In the exampleillustrated in FIG. 6, the outer surface of the emitter (i.e., thesurface facing the user, which may be referred to at times as a frontsurface) is coated with the hard coat 67. Preferably, the hard coat 67is placed on the outer surface of the emitter to improve its durabilityand improve its resistance to scratches that could otherwise damage theconductive layer 46 a or impair the transparency or appearance of theemitter. In some embodiments, the hard coat 67 can be a coating that is3H or harder. In other embodiments, coatings of 1H or harder can beapplied.

In various embodiments, the hardcoat is applied thick enough to impartadditional hardness or durability to the layer, but not so thick that itadversely affects the resonant frequency of the device or the ability ofthe device to produce a signal at acceptable power levels. Suchthicknesses may be, for example, from 10 to 20μ, however otherthicknesses can be used. In some embodiments, such as where the layer isa film (for example, Mylar), it may be desirable to coat both sides ofthe film with hardcoat to avoid curling of the film.

In some embodiments, layer 46 is configured as the ground layer, andlayer 45 as the high voltage layer. Such embodiments can be configuredto be relatively user-safe if properly packaged given that the frontface of the emitter is the face exposed to the user. In variousembodiments, however, the hard coating is preferably capable ofwithstanding large electric fields to further insulate the system.Additionally, layer 45 b may comprise a very hard material such assilicon dioxide or silicon nitride. In addition to being goodinsulators, these materials are also very hard. Therefore, the hardnessof this material will reduce physical accessibility to the high voltageon layer 45.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating yet another embodiment of a transparentemitter. In the example illustrated in FIG. 7, as compared to theembodiments in FIGS. 5A and 5B, there is no transparent layer 45 b, anda transparent layer 46 c is disposed adjacent transparent conductivelayer 46 a. Although not illustrated, in yet further embodiments,transparent layer 46 c can be eliminated. However, there must besufficient spacing between transparent conductive layer 46 a andtransparent conductive layer 45 a to avoid shorting or arcing betweenthe layers during operation.

The dimensions in these and other figures, and particularly thethicknesses of the layers and the spacing, are not drawn to scale.Conductive layers 45 a, 46 a are shown in FIGS. 3 & 4 as shaded. This isdone solely to enhance visibility in the drawing. All of the layers canbe transparent, or some of the layers can be shaded or tinted asdesired. A layer of anti-reflective, anti-scratch (or both) coating (notshown) can be provided on the outer surface of the emitter to enhancevisibility and durability of the emitter.

The emitter can be made to just about any dimension. In one applicationthe emitter is of length, l, 3 inches and its width, ω, is 2 inchesalthough other dimensions, both larger and smaller are possible. Asanother example, an emitter was created as a 6″×12″ emitter and has anoutput of 81 dB at 1 kHz when being driven with 96 kHz carrier. Anexample emitter with a dot size of 9 micron and a 1 mm pitch with 30micron film (layer 46) has resonance at approximately 100 kHz.

Greater emitter area can lead to a greater sound output, but willtypically also require more power. In some embodiments, practical rangesof length and width can be similar lengths and widths of conventionalbookshelf speakers. In embodiments where the emitter is used on or asthe screen of a content device, the emitter can be sized to beaccommodated on or by the casing of the content device or to becommensurate with the device display dimensions.

Sheets 45 and 46 (and insulating layer 47 when included) can bedimensioned to have a length and width desirable for a particularapplication. For example, where the emitter is used as a facing for apicture frame (e.g., in place of or on top of the picture frame glass),the dimensions of the emitter can be selected to conform to thedimensions of the picture frame. As another example, where a transparentemitter is configured for use as a screen or screen cover on a contentdevice, sheets 45 and 46 (and insulating layer 47 when included) can bedimensioned to conform to the form factor of the content device withwhich it is used. Large emitters can be made for applications in thetelevision or home theater segment, having a diagonal measurement suchas, for example, 36″, 50″, 55″, 60″, 65″, 70″, 80″, or 90 inches (orgreater), to name a few, with an aspect ratio to match that of thedevice. For smaller devices such as smart phones, for example, sizes orthe order of 3″×2″ can be used. In some embodiments, insulating layer 47can have a larger length and width as compared to sheets 45 and 46 toprovide insulation at the edges of the emitter and prevent edge arcingbetween sheets 45 and 46.

Parametric emitters typically have a natural resonant frequency at whichthey will resonate. For transparent emitters such as those describedherein, their natural resonant frequency can be in the range ofapproximately 30-100 kHz. For example, 80 kHz. Accordingly, the emittermaterials and the carrier frequency of the ultrasonic carrier can bechosen such that the carrier frequency matches the resonant frequency ofthe emitter. The carrier frequency can be the same as or substantiallythe same as the resonant frequency of the emitter. In some embodiments,the carrier frequency can be within, for example +/−5%, 10% or 15% ofthe resonant frequency of the emitter. Selecting a carrier frequency ator near the resonant frequency of the emitter can increase the output ofthe emitter.

The embodiments disclosed above described contacts on conductive layers45, 46. In some embodiments, a long, thin contact along one or moreedges of the conductive layers 45 a, 46 a of conductive layers 45, 46can be used to couple the signals on to the emitter. The use of a highlyconductive (e.g., silver, copper, gold, etc.) bus bar across one or morethan one side of the emitter would improve the emitter from an RC timeconstant perspective, as that would allow the applied voltage to beessentially applied uniformly or substantially uniformly from all sidesof the emitter, reducing the longest path that current must travelwithin the transparent conductive layer. The use of highly conductivesilver bus bars is not uncommon in applications for touchscreendisplays, and these bus bars may be hidden from the user by the displaybezel, which can be an opaque plastic, or an opaque paint. Bus bars canbe applied by several different methods including printing (e.g., screenprinting or stencil printing) and photolithography. It should be notedthat, as the emitters get larger, the capacitance of the emitter willincrease, thus requiring a lower resistance.

Although not illustrated, the emitter can also include a mountingassembly such as, for example, ultrahigh bond (UHB) or very high bond(VHB) tape or glue, although other adhesives or mounting mechanisms canbe provided. Preferably, the mounting assembly is disposed about theperiphery of display screen 60 such that it does not interfere with thetransparency of the emitter. In some embodiments, transparent adhesivescan be used and can be applied to bond the transparent base layer 45 bto display screen 60 about the periphery and in other areas as well.

In further embodiments, the transparent emitter can be adhered to thedisplay screen 60 of the content device using for example, opticallytransparent adhesive. Ideally, optically transparent adhesive has a highdegree of transparency such as, for example, greater than 70%. Opticallyclear or transparent adhesive can be applied in a thin film across theentire area of the joined surfaces, or it can be laid down in a patternon either or both surfaces before they are joined.

In still further embodiments, layer 60 could be a backing plate, and theemitter installed on or close to (but not touching) the display. Backingplate 60 could be bonded or attached to the display screen using, forexample, tape or glue along its edges, mechanical fasteners, oroptically transparent adhesives.

In various embodiments, the front film can itself comprise a thin layerof transparent conductive material such as graphene, without requiringsupport from a base layer. In other words, in some embodiments,conductive layer 46 a can be implemented without base layer 46 b.Therefore, in some embodiments, conductive layer 46 may be implementedas a thin layer of graphene, or a thin composite of plastic andgraphene.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a simple driver circuitthat can be used to drive the emitters disclosed herein. As would beappreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, where multiple emittersare used (e.g., for stereo applications), a driver circuit 51 can beprovided for each emitter. In some embodiments, the driver circuit 51 isprovided in the same housing or assembly as the emitter. In otherembodiments, the driver circuit 51 is provided in a separate housing.This driver circuit is only an example, and one of ordinary skill in theart will appreciate that other driver circuits can be used with theemitter technology described herein.

Typically, the modulated signal from the signal processing system iselectronically coupled to an amplifier (not shown). The amplifier can bepart of, and in the same housing or enclosure as driver circuit 51.Alternatively, the amplifier can be separately housed. Afteramplification, the signal is delivered to inputs A1, A2 of drivercircuit 51. In the embodiments described herein, the emitter assemblyincludes an emitter that can be operable at ultrasonic frequencies. Theemitter is connected to driver circuit 51 at contacts E1, E2. Anadvantage of the circuit shown in FIG. 9 is that the bias can begenerated from the ultrasonic carrier signal, and a separate bias supplyis not required. In operation, diodes D1-D4 in combination withcapacitors C1-C4 are configured to operate as rectifier and voltagemultiplier. Particularly, diodes D1-D4 and capacitors C1-C4 areconfigured as a rectifier and voltage quadrupler resulting in a DC biasvoltage of up to approximately four times the carrier voltage amplitudeacross nodes E1, E2. Other levels of voltage multiplication can beprovided using similar, known voltage multiplication techniques.

Capacitor C5 is chosen large enough to hold the bias and present an opencircuit to the DC voltage at E1 (i.e., to prevent the DC from shortingto ground), but small enough to allow the modulated ultrasonic carrierpass to the emitter. Resistors R1, R2 form a voltage divider, and incombination with Zener diode ZD1, limit the bias voltage to the desiredlevel, which in the illustrated example is 300 Volts.

Inductor can be of a variety of types known to those of ordinary skillin the art. However, inductors generate a magnetic field that can “leak”beyond the confines of the inductor. This field can interfere with theoperation and/or response of the emitter. Also, many inductor/emitterpairs used in ultrasonic sound applications operate at voltages thatgenerate large amounts of thermal energy. Heat can also negativelyaffect the performance of a parametric emitter.

For at least these reasons, in most conventional parametric soundsystems the inductor is physically located a considerable distance fromthe emitter. While this solution addresses the issues outlined above, itadds another complication. The signal carried from the inductor to theemitter is can be a relatively high voltage (on the order of 160 Vpeak-to-peak or higher). As such, the wiring connecting the inductor tothe emitter must be rated for high voltage applications. Also, long runsof the wiring may be necessary in certain installations, which can beboth expensive and dangerous, and can also interfere with communicationsystems not related to the parametric emitter system.

The inductor (including as a component as shown in the configuration ofFIG. 9) can be implemented using a pot core inductor. A pot coreinductor is housed within a pot core that is typically formed of aferrite material. This confines the inductor windings and the magneticfield generated by the inductor. Typically, the pot core includes twoferrite halves 59 a, 59 b that define a cavity 61 within which thewindings of the inductor can be disposed. See FIG. 10. An air gap G canbe included to increase the permeability of the pot core withoutaffecting the shielding capability of the core. Thus, by increasing thesize of the air gap G, the permeability of the pot core is increased.However, increasing the air gap G also requires an increase in thenumber of turns in the inductor(s) held within the pot core in order toachieve a desired amount of inductance. Thus, an air gap can increasepermeability and at the same time reduce heat generated by the pot coreinductor, without compromising the shielding properties of the core.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 9, a dual-winding step-up transformeris used. However, the primary and secondary windings can be combined inwhat is commonly referred to as an autotransformer configuration. Eitheror both the primary and secondary windings can be contained within thepot core.

As discussed above, it is desirable to achieve a parallel resonantcircuit with inductor and the emitter. It is also desirable to match theimpedance of the inductor/emitter pair with the impedance expected bythe amplifier. This generally requires increasing the impedance of theinductor emitter pair. It may also be desirable to achieve theseobjectives while locating the inductor physically near the emitter.Therefore, in some embodiments, the air gap of the pot core is selectedsuch that the number of turns in the primary winding present theimpedance load expected by the amplifier. In this way, each loop of thecircuit can be tuned to operate at an increased efficiency level.Increasing the air gap in the pot core provides the ability to increasethe number of turns in primary winding without changing the desiredinductance of inductor element (which would otherwise affect theresonance in the emitter loop). This, in turn, provides the ability toadjust the number of turns in primary winding to match the impedanceload expected by the amplifier.

An additional benefit of increasing the size of the air gap is that thephysical size of the pot core can be reduced. Accordingly, a smaller potcore transformer can be used while still providing the same inductanceto create resonance with the emitter.

The use of a step-up transformer provides additional advantages to thepresent system. Because the transformer “steps-up” from the direction ofthe amplifier to the emitter, it necessarily “steps-down” from thedirection of the emitter to the amplifier. Thus, any negative feedbackthat might otherwise travel from the inductor/emitter pair to theamplifier is reduced by the step-down process, thus minimizing theeffect of any such event on the amplifier and the system in general (inparticular, changes in the inductor/emitter pair that might affect theimpedance load experienced by the amplifier are reduced).

In one embodiment, 30/46 enameled Litz wire is used for the primary andsecondary windings. Litz wire comprises many thin wire strands,individually insulated and twisted or woven together. Litz wire uses aplurality of thin, individually insulated conductors in parallel. Thediameter of the individual conductors is chosen to be less than askin-depth at the operating frequency, so that the strands do not sufferan appreciable skin effect loss. Accordingly, Litz wire can allow betterperformance at higher frequencies.

Although not shown in the figures, where the bias voltage is highenough, arcing can occur between conductive layers 45, 46. This arcingcan occur through the intermediate insulating layers as well as at theedges of the emitter (around the outer edges of the insulating layers.Accordingly, the insulating layer 47 can be made larger in length andwidth than conductive layers 45 a, 46 a, to prevent edge arcing.Likewise, where conductive layer 46 is a metalized film on an insulatingsubstrate, conductive layer 46 can be made larger in length and widththan conductive layer 45, to increase the distance from the edges ofconductive layer 46 to the edges of conductive layer 45.

Resistor R1 can be included to lower or flatten the Q factor of theresonant circuit. Resistor R1 is not needed in all cases and air as aload will naturally lower the Q. Likewise, thinner Litz wire in inductor54 can also lower the Q so the peak is not overly sharp.

FIG. 11 is an exploded view diagram of an emitter and a screen of anaccompanying content device with which it is incorporated in accordancewith one embodiment of the technology described herein. Referring now toFIG. 11, the emitter 6 in this example includes conductive sheets 45, 46and an insulating layer 47 therebetween. This emitter can be configuredin accordance with the various embodiments as described in thisdocument, including embodiments that do not include insulating layer 47,and including embodiments that use spacers 49. For example, conductivesheets 45, 46 can be transparent sheets and can each include two layers,a conductive layer 45 a, 46 a and a base layer 45 b, 46 b. Theseseparate layers are not shown in FIG. 11 for ease of illustration.

Also shown in FIG. 11, is a display screen 60 to which the emitter isapplied. Display screen 60 can be, for example, the display screen of acontent device such as, for example, laptops, tablet computers,computers and other computing devices, smartphones, televisions, PDAs,mobile devices, mp3 and video players, digital cameras, navigationsystems, kiosks, slot machines, point-of-sale terminals, or othercontent display devices. In various embodiments, the emitter 6 can beassembled with display screen 60 during device manufacture. In otherembodiments, emitter 6 can be affixed to or joined with display screen60 after the content device has been manufactured. For example, emitter6 can be provided as an aftermarket product to be added to the contentdevice by the user or retailer. It yet further embodiments, displayscreen 60 can be provided with a conductive region (e.g., coating) andbe used as the base layer of the emitter, eliminating the need for layer45.

The emitter can be larger or smaller than the actual display area,depending on the content device and application. For example, in somecontent devices, a transparent screen is provided to form a cover plateover both the display area and the border surrounding the display area.Accordingly, with such applications, the emitter can be sized to conformto the dimensions of the cover plate, thus providing a larger emitterarea.

In yet further embodiments, content device display screen 60 can be madeusing a conductive glass (or other transparent material) and displayscreen 60 can be used as the conductive sheet 45. More particularly, insome embodiments, display screen 60 is used as base layer 45 b to whicha conductive layer 45 a is applied. In such embodiments, display screen60 can be manufactured to include an appropriate terminal or contactpoint by which a signal lead can be attached to display screen 60. Instill further embodiments, the emitter can be configured to be flexibleenough to be implemented with a touch-screen content device. Forexample, where display screen 60 is a touchscreen, emitter 6 can be madeusing sufficiently flexible materials to allow a user to operate thetouchscreen display underlying the emitter.

In further embodiments, the transparent emitter can be implemented as atouch screen display. For example, in embodiments in which acousticpulse recognition technology is used to implement the emitter/display, atouch sensor module can be included to sense wave patterns in thedisplay based on the position at which a user touches the display. Thetouch sensor module can include appropriate signal processingcircuitry/algorithms to subtract vibrations due to the known modulatedultrasonic carrier from the sensed vibrations to determine a position onthe display touched by the user. Similarly, for surface acoustic wavetechnology, the touch sensor module can include appropriate signalprocessing circuitry/algorithms to subtract effects of audio modulationon the ultrasonic carrier from the received signal to determine aposition on the display touched by the user. As a final example, withcapacitive touchscreen displays, a touch sensor module can be includedand configured to subtract any effect on the capacitance of theemitter/display caused by the modulated ultrasonic signal from receivedsignals to arrive at the capacitance changes caused by an operatortouching the display.

As described above, the emitters disclosed herein can be configured tobe implemented with any of a number of different content devices. FIG.12A is a diagram illustrating an example of an emitter (e.g., emitter 6)applied to the screen of a smart phone. In such an embodiment, theemitter can be used to play music and other media audio as well as toplay ring tones, alarms, and other alerts generated by the smart phoneand its associated applications. As with other devices, the emitter 6can be used in addition to, or in place of, conventional audio speakers.

FIG. 12B is a diagram illustrating an example of an emitter (e.g.,emitter 6) applied to the screen of a flat screen television. In suchembodiments, the emitter can be configured to play content audio (e.g.television audio) to the television viewers. FIG. 12C is a diagramillustrating an example of an emitter (e.g., emitter 6) applied to thescreen of a portable GPS device. In such applications, the emitter canbe configured to play alerts and alarms the user as well as to provideaudible turn-by-turn or other like instructions. Of course, where musicor other content is available on the portable GPS device, emitter can beconfigured to play that information to the user as well.

FIG. 12C is a diagram illustrating an example of an emitter (e.g.,emitter 6) applied to the screen of a portable navigation device. Insuch embodiments, the emitter can be configured to play backnavigational directions and other sounds (e.g., turn by turn directions,chimes, alerts, low battery messages, and so on). FIG. 12D is a diagramillustrating an example of an emitter (e.g., emitter 6) applied to thescreen of a digital camera. In such embodiments, the emitter can beconfigured to play back camera alerts and sounds (e.g., menuconfirmations, simulated shutter sound effects, low battery messages,and so on). FIG. 12E is a diagram illustrating an example of an emitter(e.g., emitter 6) applied to the screen of a handheld gaming device. Insuch embodiments, the emitter can be configured to play gaming sounds tothe user (e.g. game audio soundtracks, game sound effects, audibleinstructions, and so on) as well as gaming system alerts and messages.

Content devices, including those depicted in FIGS. 12A-12E can beconfigured to include one or more power supplies to supply power to thedevice and a content engine coupled to receive power from the powersupply and to generate electrical signals representing audio content andelectrical signals representing display content. For example, in thecase of a smartphone, the power supply is typically in the form of arechargeable battery and the content engine comprises a processorconfigured to execute one or more applications such as, for example,media player applications, gaming applications, telephone and directoryapplications, and so on. RAM, ROM and other memory can be included tostore applications, application content (e.g., audio and video files),program instructions and so on. One such example processor is theSnapdragon™ family of processors available from Qualcomm, Inc.

The content display device typically also includes a display such as,for example, a plasma, LCD, LED, OLED or other display. The display caninclude a conventional screen or a touch-sensitive screen to accept userinput and can provide color still and motion video content to the user.The display can be coupled to the content engine and configured toreceive the electrical signals representing display content and togenerate a visual representation of the display content. Continuing withthe example of a smartphone, the display can display application visualinformation such as, for example, entry screens, video content, gamingscreens, and so on. A protective cover can be included on the displayand can be made from glass, acrylic, Plexiglas, Lexan or othertransparent material. The transparent emitter can be disposed on theprotective cover, for example, as an overlay on the protective cover.Alternatively, the emitter can be provided in place of the protectivecover, or in place of the screen itself.

In these and other applications, the ultrasonic emitters can beconfigured to take advantage of the directional nature of ultrasonicsignals, and can be configured to direct the ultrasonic audio content toan intended listener or user of the device. Accordingly, the device canbe used in crowded or other public places with discretion. Emitters canalso be shaped or configured to present a broader, less directional,sound to the listeners. This can be accomplished, for example, using aconvex or multi-angled display.

In the embodiments described above, the emitter is depicted anddescribed as providing ultrasonic-carrier audio signals for a singlechannel of audio. In other embodiments, the emitter can be configured tohandle multiple audio channels. For example, in one embodiment, twoseparate emitters, each configured to be connected to an audio channel(e.g., a left and right audio channel) can be provided. FIG. 13 is adiagram illustrating one example configuration of a dual-channel emitterconfigured to provide ultrasonic carrier audio for two audio channels.In the example shown in FIG. 13, a left emitter 6A and a right emitter6B are provided and separated by insulating barrier 62. Insulatingbarrier 62 provides a nonconductive region between the left and rightemitters, electrically separating the left and right emitters so thatthe carriers injected on each emitter do not interfere with one another.In various embodiments, barrier 62 can be a non-conductive region ofconductive layers 45 a, 46 a. In other embodiments, insulating region orbarrier 62 can be a glass, acrylic, or other like insulating materialpositioned between the left and right emitters. Although two emitters61A, 61B are illustrated in this example, one of ordinary skill in theart after reading this description will understand how more than twoemitters can be created in a like fashion.

In other embodiments, rather than adding a physically separateinsulating region between the 2 emitters, conductive sheets 45 and 46can be manufactured with a nonconductive central region. For example,where doping or other like processes are used to impart conductivity tothe conductive sheets, such doping or other process can be selectivelyapplied to the sheets such that 2 or more conductive regions can becreated in each conductive sheet.

To impart spatial characteristics to the audio signal, the emitters insuch multi-emitter configurations can be positioned on a content devicein such a way that they are oriented in different angles from oneanother to direct the audio-modulated ultrasonic carrier signal indifferent directions. Even for handheld content devices, only a smallangle differential between the 2 emitters would be needed to direct oneaudio-modulated ultrasonic carrier signal to the listener's left ear andthe other audio-modulated ultrasonic carrier signal to the listener'sright ear.

In further embodiments, multiple non-conductive regions (e.g., likeinsulating barrier 62) can be used to divide the emitter into multiplesegments and to configure the emitter as a phased array emitter.Particularly, the emitter can be configured as a single channel phasedarray or as a multi-channel phased array. As a phased arrayconfiguration, the signal used to drive a given channel can be splitinto multiple paths and each path delayed in time and coupled to asegment such that the ultrasonic beam can be steered to an intendedtarget. For example, the signals may be delayed so as to allow theemitted beam to be directed at the listener at a given location, ortrack the listener as he or she moves about the listening area. Forexample, for gaming applications, the phased array can be configured totrack the gamer as he or she moves about listening area. Likewise, in atelevision environment, the phased array configuration can be used tosteer the beam toward the listener as he or she moves about the viewingarea.

For example, by increasing the amount of time delay introduced into asignal sent to the segments of the phased array emitter, the angle atwhich the audio-modulated ultrasonic signal is launched from the emittermay be increased in either direction, thereby steering the beam left orright. As another example, the delays may be configured to focus(narrow) the beam toward the center or to cause the beam to diverge(widen) as it travels away from the emitter. For instance, increasingthe time delay from a center segment toward outer segments may cause thebeam to diverge, while increasing the time delay from the outer segmentstoward the inner segments may focus the beam.

In embodiments, a device for determining a listener's distance relativeto the emitter may be used in combination with the emitter. For example,an optical imaging system such as a digital camera and a depth sensormay be used to track the listener, including the listener's distancefrom the emitter and the listener's position relative to the emitter. Inother examples, infrared, sonic, ultrasonic, radar, or other locationsensors may be used to track a listener's position and determine thelistener's distance.

In areas where there are multiple listeners, multiple phased arrays orphased arrays with time division multiplex to signals, can be used todirect different audio content to different listeners in the area. Forexample, the system can be configured to steer the content in differentlanguages to different portions of the listening environment. As afurther example, in a movie or auditorium seating sections can be brokenup into different sections based on, for example, language, rating (e.g.G, PG, R, etc.) or other criteria in the appropriate content directed tothose sections. Accordingly, people could choose to listen to thecontent in their own native language or with the appropriate ratingbased on where they sit in the auditorium.

The conductive and non-conductive layers that make up the variousemitters disclosed herein can be made using flexible materials. Forexample, embodiments described herein use flexible metallized films toform conductive layers, and non-metalized films to form resistivelayers. Because of the flexible nature of these materials, they can bemolded to form desired configurations and shapes.

For example, as illustrated in FIG. 14A, the layers can be applied to asubstrate 94 in an arcuate configuration. FIG. 14B provides aperspective view of an emitter formed in an arcuate configuration. Inthis example, a backing material 91 is molded or formed into an arcuateshape and the emitter layers 92 affixed thereto. Although one layer 92is shown in FIGS. 14B, and 15B, layer 92 can comprise layers 45 and 46and any spacers or insulators therebetween. Other examples includecylindrical (FIGS. 15A and 15B) and spherical, for example. As would beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after reading thisdescription, other shapes of backing materials or substrates can be usedon which to form ultrasonic emitters in accordance with the technologydisclosed herein. Such curved emitters can be used in a number ofapplications including, for example, as curved displays on televisionsand smartphones.

Conductive sheets 45, 46 can also be made using metalized films. Theseinclude, Mylar, Kapton and other like films. For example, in someembodiments, sheet 45 is made using a glass material and layer 46 ismade using a metalized film such as mylar. Such metalized films areavailable in varying degrees of transparency from substantially fullytransparent to opaque. Where oscillating layer (e.g., layer 46) is madeusing mylar or other like flexible film, it is ideally tensioned in bothmajor dimensions so that it is capable of vibrating at carrierfrequencies. Likewise, insulating layer 47 can be made using atransparent film. Accordingly, emitters disclosed herein can be made oftransparent materials resulting in a transparent emitter. Such anemitter can be configured to be placed on various objects to form anultrasonic speaker. For example, one or a pair (or more) of transparentemitters can be placed as a transparent film over a television screen.This can be advantageous because as televisions become thinner andthinner, there is less room available for large speakers. Layering theemitter(s) onto the television screen or other content or display deviceallows placement of speakers without requiring additional cabinet space.As another example, an emitter can be placed on a picture frame orelectronic picture frame, converting a picture into an ultrasonicemitter. Also, because metalized films can also be highly reflective,the ultrasonic emitter can be made into a mirror.

The transparent emitter is also applicable to numerous otherapplications such as, for example, automobile mirrors or windows,dashboard panels, or other vehicle surfaces; doors and windows ofappliances such as conventional ovens, microwave ovens, toaster ovens,dishwashers, refrigerators, etc.; kiosks and booths; desktop telephones;physical fitness or exercise equipment; display cases such as departmentstore, supermarket, deli and other retail display cases; equipmentscreens on equipment such as oscilloscopes and other diagnostic or testequipment, medical devices, printers and faxes, and so on.

Because of the directional nature of ultrasonic transmissions, numerousdevices so equipped may operate in proximity to one another, with theirrespective emitters directed at different listener positions, while notinterfering with one another. Also, in various embodiments ultrasonicemitters can be used in combination with conventional audio speakers toallow the device to take advantage of the features of both ultrasonicaudio (e.g., directionality) and conventional speakers (e.g.,omnidirectionality). Switching can also be provided to allow the user orthe system to select either the ultrasonic audio, the conventional audioor both.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been describedabove, it should be understood that they have been presented by way ofexample only, and not of limitation. Likewise, the various diagrams maydepict an example architectural or other configuration for theinvention, which is done to aid in understanding the features andfunctionality that can be included in the invention. The invention isnot restricted to the illustrated example architectures orconfigurations, but the desired features can be implemented using avariety of alternative architectures and configurations. Indeed, it willbe apparent to one of skill in the art how alternative functional,logical or physical partitioning and configurations can be implementedto implement the desired features of the present invention. Also, amultitude of different constituent module names other than thosedepicted herein can be applied to the various partitions. Additionally,with regard to flow diagrams, operational descriptions and methodclaims, the order in which the steps are presented herein shall notmandate that various embodiments be implemented to perform the recitedfunctionality in the same order unless the context dictates otherwise.

Although the invention is described above in terms of various exemplaryembodiments and implementations, it should be understood that thevarious features, aspects and functionality described in one or more ofthe individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to theparticular embodiment with which they are described, but instead can beapplied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more of the otherembodiments of the invention, whether or not such embodiments aredescribed and whether or not such features are presented as being a partof a described embodiment. Thus, the breadth and scope of the presentinvention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplaryembodiments.

Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unlessotherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposedto limiting. As examples of the foregoing: the term “including” shouldbe read as meaning “including, without limitation” or the like; the term“example” is used to provide exemplary instances of the item indiscussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; the terms “a” or“an” should be read as meaning “at least one,” “one or more” or thelike; and adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “normal,”“standard,” “known” and terms of similar meaning should not be construedas limiting the item described to a given time period or to an itemavailable as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompassconventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may beavailable or known now or at any time in the future. Likewise, wherethis document refers to technologies that would be apparent or known toone of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies encompass thoseapparent or known to the skilled artisan now or at any time in thefuture.

The presence of broadening words and phrases such as “one or more,” “atleast,” “but not limited to” or other like phrases in some instancesshall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intended or requiredin instances where such broadening phrases may be absent. The use of theterm “module” does not imply that the components or functionalitydescribed or claimed as part of the module are all configured in acommon package. Indeed, any or all of the various components of amodule, whether control logic or other components, can be combined in asingle package or separately maintained and can further be distributedin multiple groupings or packages or across multiple locations.

Additionally, the various embodiments set forth herein are described interms of exemplary block diagrams, flow charts and other illustrations.As will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art afterreading this document, the illustrated embodiments and their variousalternatives can be implemented without confinement to the illustratedexamples. For example, block diagrams and their accompanying descriptionshould not be construed as mandating a particular architecture orconfiguration.

What is claimed is:
 1. A transparent ultrasonic audio speaker,comprising: a first transparent conductive sheet; a second transparentconductive sheet; and a plurality of transparent spacers disposedbetween the first and second transparent conductive sheets of thetransparent ultrasonic audio speaker, the transparent spacers having athickness and being arranged to define an open area between the firstand second transparent conductive sheets, wherein at least one of thefirst transparent conductive sheet and the second transparent conductivesheet are divided into a plurality of conductive regions by one or morenonconductive regions.
 2. The transparent ultrasonic audio speaker ofclaim 1, wherein each of the plurality of conductive regions isconnected to a respective audio channel.
 3. The transparent ultrasonicaudio speaker of claim 2, wherein the transparent ultrasonic audiospeaker is a phased array emitter.
 4. The transparent ultrasonic audiospeaker of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of conductive regionsis connected to a respective path of an audio channel.
 5. Thetransparent ultrasonic audio speaker of claim 4, wherein the transparentultrasonic audio speaker is a phased array emitter.
 6. The transparentultrasonic audio speaker of claim 1, wherein each of the firsttransparent conductive sheet and the second transparent conductive sheetare divided into a plurality of conductive regions by one or morenonconductive regions.
 7. The transparent ultrasonic audio speaker ofclaim 6, wherein the transparent ultrasonic audio speaker comprisesfirst and second transparent ultrasonic audio emitters electricallyseparated by the one or more nonconductive regions, and wherein thefirst and second transparent ultrasonic audio emitters are oriented indifferent angles.
 8. The transparent ultrasonic audio speaker of claim1, wherein the one or more nonconductive regions comprise glass oracrylic.
 9. The transparent ultrasonic audio speaker of claim 1, whereinthe first transparent conductive sheet comprises a first transparentconductive layer adjacent a first transparent nonconductive layer andthe second transparent conductive sheet comprises a second transparentconductive layer adjacent a second transparent nonconductive layer. 10.The transparent ultrasonic audio speaker of claim 9, further comprisinga hard coat layer disposed on the first transparent non-conductivelayer.
 11. The transparent ultrasonic audio speaker of claim 1, whereinthe first and second transparent conductive sheets and the transparentspacers as disposed between the two layers have a combined transmittanceof greater than 75% in the visible spectrum.
 12. An electronic contentdevice, comprising: a power supply; a content engine coupled to receivepower from the power supply and to generate electrical signalsrepresenting audio content and electrical signals representing displaycontent; a display coupled to the content engine and configured toreceive the electrical signals representing display content and togenerate a visual representation of the display content; and atransparent ultrasonic audio speaker disposed on the display, thespeaker comprising: a first transparent conductive sheet; a secondtransparent conductive sheet; and a plurality of transparent spacersdisposed between the first and second transparent conductive sheets ofthe transparent ultrasonic audio speaker, the transparent spacers havinga thickness and being arranged to define an open area between the firstand second transparent conductive sheets, wherein at least one of thefirst transparent conductive sheet and the second transparent conductivesheet are divided into a plurality of conductive regions by one or morenonconductive regions.
 13. The electronic content device of claim 12,wherein each of the plurality of conductive regions is connected to arespective audio channel.
 14. The electronic content device of claim 13,wherein the transparent ultrasonic audio speaker is a phased arrayemitter.
 15. The electronic content device of claim 12, wherein each ofthe plurality of conductive regions is connected to a respective path ofan audio channel.
 16. The electronic content device of claim 15, whereinthe transparent ultrasonic audio speaker is a phased array emitter. 17.The electronic content device of claim 12, wherein each of the firsttransparent conductive sheet and the second transparent conductive sheetare divided into a plurality of conductive regions by one or morenonconductive regions.
 18. The electronic content device of claim 17,wherein the transparent ultrasonic audio speaker comprises first andsecond transparent ultrasonic audio emitters electrically separated bythe one or more nonconductive regions, and wherein the first and secondtransparent ultrasonic audio emitters are oriented in different angles.19. The electronic content device of claim 12, wherein the one or morenonconductive regions comprise glass or acrylic.
 20. The electroniccontent device of claim 12, wherein the first transparent conductivesheet comprises a first transparent conductive layer adjacent a firsttransparent nonconductive layer and the second transparent conductivesheet comprises a second transparent conductive layer adjacent a secondtransparent nonconductive layer.
 21. The electronic content device ofclaim 20, further comprising a hard coat layer disposed on the firsttransparent non-conductive layer.
 22. The electronic content device ofclaim 12, wherein the first and second transparent conductive sheets andthe transparent spacers as disposed between the two layers have acombined transmittance of greater than 75% in the visible spectrum. 23.The electronic content device of claim 12, further comprising: amodulator coupled to receive the electrical signals representing audiocontent, and to modulate the received electrical signals onto anultrasonic carrier; and a driver circuit, comprising: two inputsconfigured to be coupled to receive the electrical signals representingaudio content modulated onto an ultrasonic carrier signal; a firstoutput coupled to the first transparent conductive sheet; and a secondoutput coupled to the second transparent conductive sheet.
 24. Theelectronic content device of claim 12, wherein the electronic contentdevice comprises a laptop, a tablet, a smartphone, a television, adigital camera, a navigation device, a gaming device, a point-of-saleterminal, a kiosk, or a slot machine.